Lady Julia’s a jolly, good Fellow - and so say all of us

A GLASGOW carol concert organiser who has raised £350,000 for Cancer Research UK has received a national award for her outstanding contribution to the charity’s work.

The Cancer Research annual Flame of Hope awards acknowledge remarkable efforts in fundraising and volunteering made by people from all walks of life.

Lady Julia Edmonstone (68) of Blanefield, Glasgow, was named a Cancer Research UK Honorary Fellow for her unflinching loyalty and dedication to the cause over many years.

She picked up the accolade at a special ceremony in London on Friday, May 25 which was hosted by Cancer Research UK’s chairman, Michael Pragnell. The audience at the Hotel Russell in Russell Square heard how Lady Edmonstone has shown exceptional dedication to Cancer Research UK over more than 20 years.

The biennial Glasgow Concert of Christmas Carols and Readings has raised an amazing £350,000 in the time that Lady Edmonstone has chaired the organising committee.

She has made it a highly anticipated fixture in the Glasgow festive calendar, bringing together high profile representatives from sport, media, business and the arts together, including Sir Jackie Stewart, Colin Montgomerie, the Duke of Montrose, Richard Wilson and Muriel Gray. Other celebrities who have taken part are Richard Wilson, Ronnie Corbett, Sally McNair, Kaye Adams and Kirsty Wark.

Lady Edmonstone, who retired from the organising committee following last year’s Glasgow Cathedral concert, said: “The award was a very unexpected and moving moment in my life and I was most honoured to receive it.

“During the year before each concert you are busy tying up all the routine jobs of organising a prestigious event as well as trying to find the very best performers and readers. Your mind is committed to making the event fresh and special not just to raise funds, but also to raise the profile of the charity.

“Organising the concert over the years has been on of the most challenging and fulfilling projects in my life and one that has involved real teamwork which is why this award is one that I believe should be shared with the wonderful committee who gave of their time and talent so generously.”

Dr Harpal Kumar, Cancer Research UK chief executive, said: “Cancer Research UK has made enormous progress in the fight against cancer. However, we have only been able to do this thanks to the dedication and commitment of our volunteers and supporters without whom we would not be able to fund outstanding scientists, doctors and nurses.”

Linda Summerhayes, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for Scotland, said: “These awards are our way of thanking the people who are the lifeblood of our organisation – they give their time freely to raise money for research and promote greater awareness of the disease, and ask for nothing in return. We salute our supporters everywhere because together we will beat cancer.